Balancing the Budget No Simple Matter

Former Governor Arne Carlson criticized Governor Pawlenty for some of the budget cuts suggested because of a $935-Million shortfall. Carlson's wife founded a fetal alcohol syndrome program that began with a $7-Million budget and could wind up with $1.2-Millions if Pawlenty's cuts are left alone. The negotiating continues. House Minority Leader Marty Seifert said over all, the cuts suggested by the governor could be generallly acceptable. Seifert said ending up with a balanced budget is sort of like going to heaven; everybody wants to do it but not too many are willing to do what it takes to get the job done. The budget has be balanced no later than Juen of 2009 but if lawmakers can't work out solutions, the Governor will 'un-allot' the money at the end of the biennium.